While traveling often brings to mind images of family, loved ones, and close friends making memories in faraway destinations, there are other meaningful ways to travel. Group tours can be fun if you want a guide. But if you want to be in control of your trip and make one-of-a-kind memories, solo traveling is the way to go. Especially if you are an independent explorer.

While exploring the world on your own may seem intimidating, it can also be empowering. For some adventurers, the first solo trip may be close to home. But once you have that taste of independent travel, you’ll be ready to broaden your horizons.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

The American Southwest is stunningly beautiful but often overlooked. Santa Fe is a great destination for culture, art, history, and hiking. Canyon Road is full of galleries and studios, and Santa Fe Plaza boasts local culture and history, as well as cafes and markets.

If you want to hike and enjoy the natural scenery, Bandelier National Park is known for petroglyphs and cliff dwellings. Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) makes this an easy-to-reach destination.

Denver, Colorado

All outdoor enthusiasts should visit Denver at least once in their lifetime. With a little planning, you can catch one of your favorite musicians at Red Rocks Amphitheater, or you can experience Yoga on The Rocks. Most people recommend staying near lower downtown, affectionately known as LoDo, where there are plenty of options to shop, eat, and learn within walking distance.

For a day trip, head out to Rocky Mountain National Park and take in the stunning vistas. Denver is one of the highest ranking cities for bird watching, so don’t forget to pack your binoculars.

Washington, D.C.

DC is a great place for solo travel, and possibly one of the best places to take an inaugural solo trip. Reagan Airport (DCA) is smaller than Dulles (IAD) and will make your travel easier. Once you’ve arrived at your hotel or rental, head out to any of the 54 free museums, grab lunch from a food truck, and meander the monuments.

In addition to the National Mall, Dupont Circle, and Capitol Hill, check out U Street Corridor and Georgetown. If the weather is nice, head over to Tidal Basin and rent a paddleboard for a unique view of the monuments.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a hidden gem in America’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Nature enthusiasts can drive or hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway and enjoy the mountain scenery. The Biltmore Estate, which encompasses 8,000 acres of land, is an amazing way to spend an afternoon. The 250-room French Renaissance chateau will give you European vibes so strong you might forget you’re still in the USA. In the evening, you can explore Downtown Asheville and enjoy breweries, shops, and a menagerie of street performances.

Vancouver, Canada

Canada is another one of those places we often forget about when planning our travels. While some parts of Canada speak mostly French, Vancouver is located in British Columbia and English is the primary language. Vancouver is also a very safe city with incredible natural beauty. Some highlights include Stanley Park, Grouse Mountain, Granville Island, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Lisbon, Portugal

Located on Europe’s Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is a great destination for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and beach lovers. The capital, Lisbon, is a vibrant city located on the River Tagus. Visitors must take the Tram 28, which offers incredible views of the city, and explore the Alfama district.

Lisbon is only a short train ride away from several beautiful public beaches, so you can relax on the sand after a night out on Pink Street. And before you write off Europe as too expensive, Portugal is widely considered a very affordable city for travelers.

Kyoto, Japan

Japanese culture is incredibly rich, and Kyoto is at the center of it all. With efficient public transportation and a safe environment, you will find it easy to traverse the various monuments, parks, and markets. Kyoto was once the capital of Japan, and now it’s known for imperial palaces, traditional homes, shrines, and Buddhist temples. Treat yourself to a traditional kaiseki dining and tea ceremony. For shopping, you can explore Nishiki Market, and for a dose of nature, check out Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

 

Wherever you end up, prioritize safety as an independent explorer. Always share your travel plans – including destination cities, flights, trains, and accommodations – with someone back at home in case of emergency. As much as possible, ensure you have a phone signal. While you may want to “unplug,” it’s a good insurance policy to have phone access, even if you keep your phone on silent.

A phone is also a great way to keep a travel journal without extra weight. You may also want to take some time to download offline maps and translators as appropriate. If you’re heading anywhere foreign, it’s also important to be mindful of cultural customs.

Pack all of your necessities, like your ID, passport, phone, charger, and money, in a carry-on to keep with you at all times, and inform your credit card company of your travel plans. A few preparations, along with generally keeping your wits about you, will ensure a legendary adventure and memories that will last a lifetime.

 

 

Alison Hoover is a world traveler who loves to spend her time writing and reading. When she’s home, you can find her playing with her pet rabbit and baking.